After her husband’s death, a 20-year-old woman and her 3-month-old son ended up on the street…

They stood in the kitchen, and in his gaze, Mindy saw something more than friendly concern. It startled her, too soon, too unexpectedly. Sorry, Andrew stepped back immediately, noticing her unease.

I didn’t mean to pressure you. Just know I’m here if you ever need help. Any kind.

Rachel and Clark hadn’t forgotten about her either. Rachel often called to check in, and Clark gave her rides when she needed to go somewhere with the baby. One morning, when Alex had already learned to sit and was curiously exploring a new toy his grandfather had given him, Andrew called with unexpected news.

Remember we talked about the possibility of creating a charity foundation to support young widows with children, he asked excitedly. I found a suitable space and already filed all the paperwork. All that’s left is your signature on the founding documents.

But I don’t know anything about charity work, Mindy said, flustered. I don’t even know where to start. I’ll help, Andrew said confidently.

I’ve worked with non-profit organizations before. The most important thing is your desire to help others. Mindy paused to think.

She knew firsthand what it was like to be left alone with a child, no support, no home, no means to survive. If not for John’s foresight, how would she have managed? All right, she said decisively. Let’s try.

But I want the foundation to be named after John. Of course, Andrew agreed. I’ve already included that in the official documents.

By summer, when Alex turned eight months old, the John Cooper Foundation officially began its work. Mindy threw herself into the new endeavor. She personally met with every woman who came seeking help, listened to their stories, and offered advice and support.

You’ve changed so much, Rachel noted during a visit. You’ve grown stronger, more confident. John would be proud of you.

Mindy smiled, watching Alex playing in his playpen. I’m just doing what I have to, she replied simply. For Alex, for John, and for myself.

Andrew became an increasingly present figure in her life, not just as the foundation’s legal advisor, but as a friend always ready to help. He grew attached to Alex, and the boy recognized him, joyfully reaching out his arms whenever Andrew visited. He sees you as part of the family, Mindy remarked one day.

And what about you? Andrew asked softly. What am I to you? Mindy couldn’t find an answer. Too many emotions were battling within her.

Gratitude, affection, fear of a new relationship, guilt over John. I don’t know, she admitted honestly. I’m not ready to think about that yet.

I understand, Andrew nodded. I’m willing to wait as long as it takes. Time passed.

Alex began learning to walk. His hesitant first steps melted the hearts of everyone around him. Dolores, who now spent more and more time with her grandson, took down an old photo of little John from the wall and brought it to show Mindy.

Look how alike they are, she said tenderly. Same eyes, same stubborn chin. He even furrows his brow the same way when he’s focused.

Her relationship with her mother-in-law gradually improved. Mindy couldn’t say she had fully forgiven that terrible night, but for her son’s sake, she learned to accept Dolores as she was, with all her flaws and virtues. The foundation grew and flourished.

By the end of its first year, they had helped over 500 families with paperwork, employment, and even temporary housing. Mindy immersed herself in the work, finding not only purpose in it, but healing for her own soul. Andrew remained by her side, as a friend, as the foundation’s lawyer, as someone she could always count on…